Getting accepted into Gateway was a really lucky opportunity for me. I have had the opportunity to go out and gain really good work experience within the automotive industry.

At the beginning of the year I had the chance to try out two taster days. I tried out Timaru Motors but I was more interested in the small motors so I got the opportunity to go to Stihl Shop in Washdyke.

My work at Stihl Shop involves basic servicing on chainsaws, lawn mowers and ride on mowers. There are alot of other things that also need to be done in the workplace such as restocking shelves and assembling products. For example I have worked on assembling chainsaws, lawn mower catchers, weed eaters, leaf blowers (motorised and electric).

As part of my Gateway plan I am completing unit standards towards NCEA level 2 with the Motor Industry Training Organisation (MITO). I am completing these online using elearning. All of this work counts towards an apprenticeship for Light Automotive.

My assessor visits me both at school and at the workplace and assess's me for Automotive Micro-Credentials. By the end of this year I will have achieved the MITO Ignition Programme.

My plans for next year are to gain an apprenticeship in the light automotive field. Gateway at Roncalli has provided me with great opportunities and experience to be able to make a really informed choice about my future.